Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre

At the heart of Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve is the Conservation Centre – a converted barn that has been welcoming visitors, volunteers and educational groups to the reserve since 2004.

Location

Lorton Lane

Weymouth

Dorset

DT3 5QH

OS Map Reference

SY675826

Know before you go

Size

75 hectares

Entry fee

None

Parking information

Car park at conservation Centre

Bicycle parking

Yes

Grazing animals

Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please see below for map for more information.

Walking trails

Network of marked paths including nature trails and the Legacy Trial (Lorton to Portland Bill) - leaflets available from Centre.

Access

Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please refrain from walking your dog through the meadow(s) marked with a red dog traffic light. For more information, please see the posters and leaflets at the Conservation Centre and signs on the field gates. Below is a map of the areas affected and more information about the dog traffic light system operating on the reserve.

There are gates at most entrances. Unsurfaced paths (apart from Centre surrounds). Disabled access and toilets at Centre.

Take precautions against ticks.

Dogs

Under effective control

On a lead or under effective control. There are cows and a bull on site throughout the year – please keep your distance, observe the Dog Traffic Light signs on gates and check/pick up a map from the Conservation Centre. For a printable version of the lea

Facilities

Visitor centre

Toilets

Shop

Cafe/refreshments

Picnic area

Disabled toilet

Baby changing facilities

Outdoor play area

When to visit

Opening times

April to September:
Open to the public 10am-5pm, Wednesday – Sunday and during events.

October to March:
Winter opening hours (10am – 4pm) from 1st October to 31st March.
Open during scheduled events and for school visits, group bookings and room hire.

Best time to visit

Spring and Summer for flowers, insects and birds.

About the reserve

Drop in to the Conservation Centre for a reviving hot drink, or soothing cold drink, we have fairtrade, organic tea and coffee, plus cold fruity drinks and locally made sweet treats. Relax and watch the live cameras for glimpses of feeding birds in the winter and nesting birds (kestrel, barn owl & great tit) in the spring & summer, or buy one of our wildlife guides so you can spot nature on your own patch.

The picnic area and outdoor classroom are the perfect places for lunch whatever the weather (please take all your rubbish home). Children can have fun on our wildlife inspired play area and there’s plenty of information to help you explore the reserve in the outdoor classroom.

For information about the reserve, including maps, nature trails, access, species and habitats, please see the Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve page.

Help make a difference to your local wildlife by volunteering: you could assist us in the Centre, welcoming visitors, help with our events programme or join us for Volunteer Conservation Tasks and surveying the reserve. Please contact us on 01305 816546 to find out more.

Lorton Meadows dog walking traffic light guide

Education at Lorton Meadows

Whether it's searching for minibeasts, pond dipping, identifying trees, or getting stuck into a practical task, we have a range of learning opportunities for Key Stage 1- 4, that can be tailored to suit individual groups. Download the education opportunities leaflet below and contact us to discuss your requirements. For A Level or Higher Education groups please contact us on 01305 816546.